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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Clay, NY (NOW HIRING)

Principal Program Manager

Clyde, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Oneida, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Wolcott, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Montezuma, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Cato, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Fabius, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Pompey, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Mottville, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Mallory, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Cicero, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Maple View, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

New Haven, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Munnsville, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Nedrow, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Liverpool, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

La Fayette, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Mexico, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Principal Program Manager

Westdale, NY · On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful ... Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products Citizenship Requirements:

Showing results 21-40

Program Manager Defense information

See Clay, NY salary details

$37.4K

$104.4K

$152.6K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Clay, NY is $104,449.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,300.00 and $128,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager defense?

A Program Manager in Defense is responsible for overseeing and coordinating large-scale defense projects, which may involve military equipment, technology systems, or defense-related services. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all specified requirements and regulations. This role often includes working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and liaising with government agencies or military branches. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is a thorough understanding of defense industry standards and protocols.

What is the difference between Program Manager Defense vs Project Manager Defense?

AspectProgram Manager DefenseProject Manager Defense
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, strategic planning, and overall program successManages individual projects, ensuring specific objectives are met within scope, time, and budget
CertificationsTypically PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsUsually PMP or CAPM certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in defense contractors, government agencies, or military settingsSimilar environments, focusing on specific project deliverables
FocusStrategic coordination and long-term goalsTactical execution of individual projects

While both roles require project management skills and certifications like PMP, the Program Manager Defense oversees multiple projects and aligns them with strategic objectives, whereas the Project Manager Defense focuses on managing specific projects to meet immediate goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager defense?

To thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in project management, defense acquisition processes, and often a relevant degree such as engineering or business, with security clearance frequently required. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and DoD-specific platforms, as well as certifications like PMP or DAWIA, are typically expected. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills set top performers apart by enabling them to manage diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure effective project execution, compliance with defense regulations, and successful delivery of critical programs within scope, budget, and timeline.

What are some common challenges a program manager defense faces when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Program Managers in the defense industry often encounter challenges such as balancing strict security requirements with timely project delivery, managing cross-functional teams that include engineers, analysts, and government stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with evolving defense regulations. Navigating complex stakeholder expectations and adapting to shifting project scopes are also frequent hurdles. Successful Program Managers proactively foster communication across teams and maintain detailed project documentation to address these challenges.
What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Clay, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Clay, NY are:
What cities near Clay, NY are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs? Cities near Clay, NY with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Principal Program Manager

Saab

Clyde, NY • On-site

$165K - $223K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Saab, Inc. in East Syracuse, NY is seeking a dynamic, results-oriented Principal Program Manager to be responsible for the profitable execution of programs within the Surveillance U.S. division. The preferred candidate will have an in-depth knowledge of military or commercial radar systems, markets, and technologies through several years of working in this domain. The Principal Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a successful business growth strategy within assigned segment(s), identification and pursuit of significant new business opportunities, and interfacing across disciplines and departments to achieve business objectives.

Additional responsibilities of the Principal Program Manager will include, but are not limited to:

Specifically accountable for cost, schedule and technical performance of assigned Program portfolios.

  • Establish and control program budgets that are aligned with program needs.

  • Establish and control program schedule to meet all program milestones.

  • Establish and maintain depot capabilities necessary to support Saab products.

  • Manage applicable NRE labor and applicable material procurements.

  • Coordinate the definition of facility requirements

  • Manage the on-going maintenance, repair and operational support of Saab products to include managing logistics, spare parts, technical data and technical support

  • Ensure all projects within assigned program are managed and executed within approved program management processes.

  • Identify and manage risks and opportunities across cost, schedule and technical.

  • Make personnel recommendations in support of business objectives.

  • Drive Earned Value Management principles and initiatives within the business and use EVMS to report program status internally and externally.

  • Ensure performance of subcontractors.

Oversee profitable growth of the program segment.

  • Work closely with Sales and Product Management personnel to maintain institutional knowledge of the competitive landscape in the assigned market segment.

  • Develop high quality competitive proposals that facilitate achievement of business segment objectives.

  • Collaborate with all functions within the business unit to leverage program execution, capture strategies and resources through the design and manufacturing phases of the programs in the portfolio.

  • Grow relationships in the customer community and with large industry primes to service existing programs and find new and unique ways to deploy our technology to meet customer needs.

Provide consistent leadership to the program execution staff to ensure effective and efficient execution of assigned programs.

  • Monitor and guide junior program managers to achieve delivery of distinctively high-quality products and services; to include performance, reliability, cost and on-time delivery.

  • Contribute to the development and retention of program management talent.

Compensation.

  • $165,700 - $223,800.

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Required Qualifications

  • BA/BS degree and 20+ years experience, OR MA/MS degree and 18+ years experience, OR PhD degree and 16+ years experience.

  • Experience successfully negotiating multi-million-dollar agreements.

  •  Must possess advanced knowledge of program management standards and best practices (scheduling, cost accounting, EVMS, Risk/Opportunity management).

  • Willingness to travel internationally and domestic up to 15% (about 1 trip per quarter)

  • The ability to obtain a U.S. DoD SECRET security clearance.

Desired Qualifications

  • Engineering or program management background with 10+ years of progressive program management experience

  • Demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial products

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

  • Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

  • 401(k) with employer contributions

  • Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

  • Wellness and employee assistance resources

  • Employee stock purchase opportunities

  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.


Saab logo

About Saab

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Syracuse, NY, US